THE “GOING GREEN” EXPERIENCE

An amazing trip taking you deep inside the Troodos Forest where you will experience the nature and wilderness of Cyprus, seldom seen by the average tourist!

It’s a day filled with spectacular landscapes, little known cultural monuments and natural wonders, clean rivers, pristine air, birds, flowers, trees, rocks, soils, cliffs, fields, orchards, vineyards and lots of fun and adventure. There’s a chance to do some light trekking in cool, shaded mountain forests and to swim in unique settings you will never forget! We top it all off with great local food and probably the best wine in Cyprus.
Here are the specifics:
We start the day with a short stop at one of Cyprus’ most dazzling “must see” destinations: Petra tou Romiou (the so-called “Birthplace of Aphrodite”). You can marvel at the rocks or have a quick drink, before we begin the main programme.
We journey deep inside the Paphos hinterland to visit Khrysoroyiatissa Monastery, often described as “the most quaint and picturesque Monastery on the Island.” We’ll tour the old stone complex, visit the famous church and newly-built Museum, and perhaps observe some modern Icon-painting that sometimes occurs here. We’ll then move on to see Pano Panayia, the village home to one of Cyprus’ most famous modern historical figures, Archbishop Markarios III.
Into the deep Paphos Forest we go! We take the road less travelled to reach a wonderfully serene and majestic spot in the Troodos Mountains called Cedar Valley. You can experience the magic of Cyprus’ largest endemic tree, the Cyprus Cedar (cedrus brevifolia). Learn the story of these unique trees as you enjoy a short walk and breathe in the cleanest air on the Island! A short stop at the famous Monastery of Kykkos, which was built in 1092 and dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Trek to Platys: A non-strenuous, yet satisfying mini-trek along well-shaded forest tracks through young shoots of pine. On rare occasions, the elusive Cyprus Moufflon has been sighted in this area. (This is an optional 30-min walk.)
Jelephos Bridge: This venerable stone bridge dates to the Venetian period and spans the source area of the Dhiarizos (“Two Roots”) river. Sometimes wild trout can be seen in the clear waters beneath the bridge. A traditional village winery for free wine tasting and an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating winemaking process.
Omodhos Village: We end the day with a stop at this quintessential Cypriot village, famous for it’s narrow streets, stone architecture, and the Timios Stavros Monastery (where, it is said, a piece of the rope used to tie Christ to the cross is still kept.).
Ample time for a stroll through village streets, or a quick shopping session.